I seem to remember someone making a big red foam heart during valentines day. Placed it on the street and welcomed 'lovers' to stand on the heart for a portrait shot and it worked well. I like the candy-cane idea.

I live in Japan, so I learned the phrase in Japanese "may I take your picture please". I've used it a lot when I've been out and about. I haven't done a full on picture project, but I think it would be a cool thing to do before I move.

It's funny how japanese people (especially teenagers) want to take their photo with us (the foreigners). We've also been asked for our autographs by junior high students. It's like being a celebrity (except we aren't).

Just saw this thread getting started - honestly it's all about the momentum. once you get the idea that you'd like to get someone's photo, just keep the ball rolling. make yourself stand up, walk over with a big smile and an honest request, "could I ask a favor of you... " I'm in the middle of a 365 project where I take a photo everyday of myself, with someone. a lot of those someones happen to be my family, but a lot of those someones are often complete strangers. the coolest thing is linking with social networking sites like facebook or flickr and seeing how other people are networked to you. if you're interested in the project, or have cool ideas of your own (I love the lollipop idea) flickr mail or facebook me!

I haven't taken many photos of strangers, but I have discovered it's a lot easier when I'm out shooting with someone else. We egg each other on. That's how I got up the courage to take this one (I asked his permission first):

There is NO WAY I would have taken this without my friend's moral support.

I can tell the shot was well-planned! great colors, very nice crop! When I do my group shots I've got a little gorilla pod that I set up - but I don't really put enough emphasis on the framing of the photo. great shot!

the project's been awesome - not only the retention of daily details, but stepping out getting to know people and share the fun of photography is exhilarating!